Bacteriological Testing

The Carteret County Health Department has a State Certified in-house lab capable of testing for bacterial contamination in private potable water supplies. Water samples are tested for the presence of total coliform and E. coli bacteria, which are indicators of bacterial contamination . A water supply should have no coliform or E. coli bacteria present.

Water Samples
Our Bacteriological Water Quality Laboratory allows the homeowner to draw the water sample themselves and submit it to the lab for testing. Samples must be taken in a sterile water bottle provided by the lab and must be returned the same day the sample is taken.

Fees
There is a fee for the service, which must be paid when you pick up your sample bottle. Sample bottles can be picked up in the Environmental Health Division between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. After collecting your sample, return the bottle by 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday (sorry no samples are accepted on Friday). Results are usually ready within 36 hours.